Minister Abdul Mu’ti Unveils New Student Admissions System with Four Tracks
In a groundbreaking announcement, Minister of Primary and Secondary Education Abdul Mu’ti revealed the details of the New Student Admissions System (SPMB), set to replace the current New School Participants Admissions System (PPDB) in 2025. The unveiling of this new system comes as a response to the growing need for a more inclusive and equitable student admissions process in Indonesia.
At a press conference held on Thursday, Minister Mu’ti introduced the four distinct admission tracks that will form the foundation of the SPMB. These tracks aim to cater to a diverse range of student needs and backgrounds, ensuring that every child has access to quality education opportunities.
Domicile, Achievement, Affirmative, and Transfer Tracks
The first track, known as the domicile or student residence track, will undergo significant adjustments to better align with the specific needs of students based on their areas of residence. Minister Mu’ti emphasized that this track, previously known as the zoning system, will play a crucial role in ensuring fair and equitable access to education for all students.
The second track, the achievement track, is designed to recognize students who have excelled not only academically but also in non-academic areas such as sports, arts, and leadership. This holistic approach to student assessment aims to celebrate a diverse range of talents and skills among students.
Furthermore, the affirmative track will provide much-needed support to students with disabilities and those from underprivileged communities, ensuring that they have equal opportunities to access quality education. This track underscores the government’s commitment to creating a more inclusive and accessible education system for all.
Lastly, the transfer track will accommodate students whose parents have relocated for work, as well as include quotas for children of teachers who teach at specific schools. This track acknowledges the transient nature of modern society and seeks to provide a seamless transition for students facing relocation challenges.
Transitioning from PPDB to SPMB: More Than Just a Name Change
Minister Mu’ti emphasized that the transition from PPDB to SPMB represents a significant shift in the government’s approach to student admissions. This move is not merely a change in name but a reflection of the government’s commitment to providing the best possible education services for all students, regardless of their background or circumstances.
“We have submitted this draft to the president, and he said he agreed with the substance of our proposal,” Minister Mu’ti remarked, highlighting the government’s dedication to creating a more inclusive and equitable education system in Indonesia. The minister underscored that these changes were informed by extensive studies conducted since the implementation of the PPDB system in 2017.
Moving Forward: Collaboration and Stakeholder Engagement
As the SPMB implementation will involve collaboration with local governments and other stakeholders, the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education is actively engaging with related partners to ensure a smooth transition to the new system. This collaborative approach underscores the government’s commitment to working closely with all relevant parties to create a more inclusive and equitable education system in Indonesia.
In conclusion, Minister Mu’ti’s unveiling of the SPMB with its four distinct admission tracks marks a significant step towards creating a more inclusive, equitable, and accessible education system in Indonesia. By recognizing and catering to the diverse needs of students, the SPMB aims to ensure that every child has the opportunity to thrive and succeed in their educational journey.
